Many professions have a code of ethics, especially human services, that work with people and affect their lives. The ACA Code of Ethics governs the ethical framework for the work of consultants. The NAADAC was explicitly created for Addiction Professionals and is used by government agencies for certification (Corey & Corey, 2022). Ethical standards for Human Service Professionals focus on general moral and ethical standards that apply to all who help people.
The similarities of the codes are primarily related to the general principles of working with people – they endure honesty, trust, confidentiality, protecting clients from harm, and advocating for social justice. The main milestones in these codes are confidentiality of the client’s private information, which provides trust between a service provider and a person. Another essential rule is avoiding sexual and romantic relationships that protect clients from harassment and being taken advantage of. In a culturally diverse world, the necessary ethical regulation is respecting others’ cultural differences and not imposing personal beliefs on a client.
I want to compare The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics and The National Education Association (NEA) Code of Ethics for Educators. These documents’ similarity lies in prioritizing a person’s dignity and worth, social justice, and professional competence. The difference lies in the fact that the teacher, speaking on the side of the interests of the students, must guide them in the right direction in humane ways (The NEA Code of Ethics). The social worker is focused on providing services to the client in a manner that is convenient for the client (The NASW Code of Ethics).
Almost all professions have a code of ethics, but only certain professionals, such as lawyers or doctors, sign it. Violation of the professional, ethical code usually threatens serious consequences – a reprimand and a fine, dismissal, or revocation of a license to operate. If the violation is severe, then a person may lose the opportunity to work in this profession for several years.
References
Corey, M. S., & Corey, G. (2022). Becoming a helper. 8th edition. Cengage Learning.
Ethical standards for HS Professionals (n.d.). MemberClicks. Web.
NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals (2021). NAADAC/NCC AP Code of Ethics. Alexandria, VA: NAADAC. Web.
The ACA Code of Ethics (2014). Web.
The NASW Code of Ethics (n.d.). Web.
The NEA Code of Ethics for Educators (2020). Web.